Maths & Numeracy

Curriculum Leader: Rachel Andree

It is our aim at Arbour Vale School to ensure that Mathematics lessons are engaging, stimulating, multi-sensory and differentiated to suit the needs of all of our pupils. A key focus is placed on developing pupils’ problem solving skills, providing them with opportunities to apply ideas confidently to solve real-life problems. This gives pupils the opportunity to reflect and evaluate the world around them. Pupils are educated in a warm, welcoming environment where they are encouraged to build on their existing skills, develop curiosity in Mathematics and most of all enjoy their learning!

Maths aims

• Provide pupils with techniques so that they can investigate and solve problems in school mathematics and other curricular areas.
• Develop and extend a pupil’s ability to express themselves clearly; to reason logically and to be able to generalise.
• Build a pupil’s confidence in their own ability and develop mathematical skills for application in real life scenarios.
• Develop mathematical knowledge and oral, written and practical skill that encourages confidence and enjoyment.

Enrichment

Whenever possible, opportunities are taken to provide curriculum enrichment for mathematics and numeracy.  Previous examples of whole school days and events have included; Number Day, Enterprise Day, Robot Day, whole school and phase assemblies and a Maths fayre.

EYFS

In the Foundation Stage our pupils follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum and Numeracy is one of the specific learning areas.  Although numeracy is taught as specific focus activities throughout the week it is also integrated into all aspects of the day and is learnt through sensory exploration and play.

Key Stage 1 and 2

In our Primary Department we continue our enjoyment of numeracy through exploration and play but it begins to take a more formal structure with a numeracy lesson being part of the daily planning but as with the Foundation Stage it also links across the curriculum. Pupils have a constant focus on number work in a variety of both play and practical situations.  Pupils continue to develop their understanding of maths through problem solving in play and real life situations.

The school uses a Mathematics Mastery approach to planning. The mathematics team have created a series of structured lesson plans that are continually monitored and modified to meet the requirements for each class and child. Throughout the year the mathematical strands are taught with synchronicity throughout the school.

Children are introduced to real life applications for mathematics through the use of STEM activities.

Key Stage 3

In Key Stage 3, pupils follow the National Curriculum which is adapted to meet their needs. Pupils continue to develop their understanding of core strands in mathematics. In addition they are challenged with becoming problem solvers in fun and engaging ways.

Our curriculum offers a variety of different ways to demonstrate a strong understanding from their class learning and exemplary practice is showcased on the mathematics board and in termly newsletters.

Key Stage 4

In Key Stage 4, most pupils are working towards their AQA Entry Level accreditation and GCSE Maths. For the children not working at Entry Level, we accredit their mathematical learning through AQA Unit Awards, ASDAN Transitional Challenge and Personal Progress.

Post 16

Post 16 students follow the Adult Core Curriculum. They use Skills for Life or ASDAN Towards Independence as accreditation for their application of mathematical skills in real life situations. Assessment is made using Milestones, Entry Level and Level 1 and 2.